Return to Roots
It recently seemed that Infiniti would replace the Q50 model with a fully electric sedan, symbolizing a clear break from the past and an orientation toward the future. For a brand seeking new relevance amid widespread electrification, this seemed like a logical step.
However, this direction did not take hold. At the end of last year, Infiniti confirmed that the Q50 would return, but not as an electric car, but as a rear-wheel-drive sedan with an internal combustion engine, to be designated the Q50S. This decision naturally raises the question: could the Q60 coupe also make a comeback?
The previous generation Q60, produced from 2016 to 2022, shared a common structural base with the Q50.
If Infiniti decides to revive the stylish two-door coupe, it could be built on the basis of the next-generation Q50. However, the term “new generation” might be somewhat exaggerated. According to reports, the new Q50S will be more of a heavily modernized version of the previous model, similar to how Toyota updated the Camry or Nissan updated the Sentra.
Reusing this platform would provide significant cost savings compared to developing a coupe from scratch. It would also give Infiniti designers a good foundation to work with, which could speed up development and preserve brand integrity.
Possible Look of the New Coupe
Designer Nikita Chuiko from the publication Kolesa presented a series of renderings illustrating what a modern Q60S might look like. The previous Q60 was already an elegant car, and these images envision a third generation that retains the sculpted silhouette and clean, flowing side lines. The main changes have affected the front and rear.
Dominating the front is a massive black grille, which will undoubtedly give the car significant road presence. Large black air intakes on both sides of the bumper are also anticipated, along with angular headlights with LED elements extending along the top of the grille.
The rear of the car is also quite interesting. Although the rear fenders and windows are similar to the previous Q60, the LED taillights are completely new. The car is also shown with a black rear bumper and a dual exhaust system reminiscent of the solution on the Nissan Z.
Powertrain and Technical Features
According to reports, Infiniti showed the future Q50S at a dealer conference in Las Vegas last year. Based on preliminary information, it is expected to receive the same bi-turbo V6 engine as the Nissan Z, with 400 horsepower.
This in itself places the car in a solid segment, but the real highlight could be the availability of a manual transmission paired with rear-wheel drive.
If these features are implemented in series production, it could make the car one of the most exciting sedans to drive on the market.
The return of the Q60 coupe based on an updated platform and with a powerful powertrain from the sporty Nissan Z could be a strategic move for Infiniti. It would allow the brand to fill the niche of emotional, driver-oriented cars in its portfolio, especially against the backdrop of the general trend toward crossovers and electrification. The success of such a car would depend not only on technical specifications but also on how well Infiniti can convey its identity through it and offer a compelling alternative to competitors from Germany and Japan. The sports coupe market remains niche but loyal to its enthusiasts, for whom the live driving sensations and distinctive design are important.